A BEREAVED family has been devastated by the theft of a necklace their daughter was wearing when she was killed in an accident almost 30 years ago.

Police are appealing for the community to help trace the piece of jewellery that was stolen during a burglary in Dipton, County Durham, between Tuesday, November 3 and Friday November 6.

While the burglary was reported at the time, the loss was only realised when the family returned recently from an overseas holiday.

Sergeant Dave Clarke of Stanley Police said: “Amongst other items, a necklace was stolen which belonged to the victim’s 18-year-old daughter who died in a car crash 28 years ago.

“The necklace was worn by her daughter during the crash and has great sentimental value.”

He added: “Burgling somebody’s house is a despicable crime that has long lasting effects on the victims.

“The criminals themselves are often unable to comprehend how much distress they cause, particularly when they take items that may be of deep sentimental value.

“I would ask the community to pull together and help us catch these offenders and get them behind bars where they can’t spoil anybody else’s Christmas”

The stolen necklace has been described as being a mother of pearl circular necklace, with a third of it missing.

Also stolen in the raid was a quantity of cash in a metal tin and a gold-looking tie pin.

Anyone with information should contact Durham Police on 101 quoting crime reference number WH150183, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.